Nestled in the rugged landscape of Karangasem, Bali, Muntigunung Village has a story unlike any other. Once labeled as the “beggar’s village,” this remote community was plagued by poverty, water scarcity, and limited opportunities. However, through resilience and sustainable development, Muntigunung has transformed into one of Bali’s most breathtaking trekking destinations. The village’s journey from hardship to hope is a testament to the power of community-driven change and environmental conservation.
Once labeled as the “beggar’s village,” Muntigunung has transformed into one of Bali’s most breathtaking destinations
A Village Marked by Hardship
For decades, Muntigunung was one of Bali’s most impoverished areas. Its location on the arid northeastern slopes of Mount Batur meant little rainfall, making agriculture nearly impossible. Water was a rare and precious resource, forcing villagers—especially women and children—to embark on daily treks of up to five hours just to collect clean water. With few employment opportunities, many residents migrated to urban areas like Denpasar, Kuta, and Ubud, resorting to begging as a means of survival. This harsh reality gave rise to the village’s unfortunate nickname, reinforcing a negative stigma that persisted for generations.
A Myth of Curses and Misfortune
Muntigunung’s struggles are deeply intertwined with Balinese folklore. According to legend, the village was once fertile and prosperous. However, its fortune changed when an old man selling sacred water, Mas Manik Mampeh, was shunned by the villagers due to his unpleasant appearance. The man was, in fact, the Hindu goddess Dewi Danu in disguise. Angered by their treatment, she cursed the land, turning it barren and condemning the villagers to a life of suffering. Whether myth or coincidence, this tale has long been woven into the fabric of Muntigunung’s history, adding an air of mystique to its transformation.
A Landscape of Stark Beauty
Despite its arid conditions, Muntigunung boasts a strikingly beautiful landscape. The trek to the village is a journey through Bali’s lesser-known side—one that contrasts the island’s tropical allure with rugged hills, steep ridges, and sweeping views of Mount Abang and Mount Agung. As trekkers ascend the trails, they witness a dramatic shift in scenery—from lush forests to dry, ochre-hued terrain dotted with cashew trees. The panoramic vistas extend to the shimmering waters of Lake Batur, offering a perspective of Bali few get to see.
A Sustainable Revival
Muntigunung’s transformation began when several NGOs dedicated themselves to improving the village’s living conditions and breaking the cycle of poverty by utilizing the area's natural resources. Organizations such as the Swiss-backed Future for Children, in collaboration with Yayasan Dian Desa and the Muntigunung Community Development Program (MCDP) founded by Daniel Elber, played a crucial role in this effort.
These NGOs focused on enhancing the quality of life for Muntigunung’s residents by providing access to clean water, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities. Specially designed rainwater harvesting roofs were installed, ensuring a reliable water supply. Improved sanitation facilities led to a drop in child mortality rates from 9% to 0%, while expanded educational access created new possibilities for the younger generation.
A major turning point was the establishment of sustainable social enterprises. The Muntigunung Community Social Enterprise specializes in food production, cultivating drought-resistant crops like moringa and cashews. Meanwhile, Muntigunung Handicrafts empowers local women by providing artisanal skills and stable employment. These initiatives not only create sustainable livelihoods but also reinvest their profits into further community development, ensuring long-term positive change.
Trekking into the Future
As Muntigunung embraced sustainable tourism, trekking became a gateway for visitors to experience its raw beauty and resilience. The Muntigunung Trekking Program now offers guided hikes that take adventurers through its scenic trails while educating them on the village’s history and transformation. The trek is more than just a physical challenge—it is a pilgrimage through a land shaped by struggle and renewal.
Visitors who take part in this experience not only witness stunning landscapes but also contribute to the village’s continued growth. Each step along the rugged paths tells a story of hardship, adaptation, and perseverance. Today, Muntigunung is no longer defined by its past as a “beggar’s village” but celebrated as a destination of hope and breathtaking natural splendor.
Muntigunung’s success story serves as an inspiring model for other underprivileged communities. By prioritizing sustainable development, community empowerment, and eco-tourism, the village has redefined its identity. The transformation from a place of poverty to a thriving trekking hub showcases the power of collaboration and resilience.
